**** Via NS EMO

Winter Storm Prep

Winter storms or extreme cold can occur suddenly and last for multiple days. Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds.

Before

Listen to local news and weather reports for information on changing weather conditions
Insulate walls and attics; install storm windows or cover windows with plastic
Make sure you have shovels and snow removal equipment handy
Have an alternative heat source, such as a fireplace, wood burning stove, or a generator, so you are able to keep one room in your home warm and livable.
Keep fire extinguishers on-hand and make sure your family knows how to use them.
Talk with your family about what you would do during a winter weather-related emergency, at home or in the car.
Prepare your vehicle for winter weather and create an emergency kit for your vehicle. Keep the gas tank full. Always check local weather conditions before heading out on the road.
Install snow fences in rural areas to reduce drifting snow on roads and paths, which could block access to homes, barns, and animals’ feed and water.
Be prepared for secondary hazards such as power outage and flooding once snow melts.

During

When a severe storm is expected, Environment Canada will issue a weather warning through the Weather Office website
During the storm, avoid going outside or unnecessary travel.
If you have to go outside, dress appropriately, and watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
Use the “buddy” system if you can - bring someone outside with you.
Bring companion animals indoors. Create a place where other animals can be comfortable in severe winter weather.
Do not overexert yourself or work outside for extended periods of time.
if you are trapped or injured call 911!!

After

Continue to take precautions and listen to and follow directions from local authorities.
Avoid travelling if possible and listen to local news and weather reports for current road and weather conditions.
Be aware of the wind chill. Avoid unnecessary exposure of any part of the body to the cold.
If you have to go outside, dress appropriately, and watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
Be careful when clearing snow. Take your time and avoid overexertion. Take regular breaks to warm up and rest if needed.

- **** Via HRFE

Fire Safety During Winter Storms

During the winter season HRM can experience extreme conditions and significant snow fall - both of which can contribute to increased hazards in your home. To help keep you and your family safe during winter storms consider the following fire safety tips:

Clear snow around exits - doors, stairways, fire escapes and bedroom windows.
Keep vents and chimneys free of ice and snow to reduce the risk of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning.
When shoveling snow consider (if it is safe to do so) clearing the snow from your nearest fire hydrant so firefighters can access the hydrant should they need it for an emergency at your home.
Have and practice a Fire Escape Plan.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms:

Be sure you have working smoke alarms.
Check to make sure your smoke alarms have battery back-up.
Check to make sure the back-up batteries are in fact working.
If you burn any fuels that produce CO (wood, oil, gas etc.) or if you live in a home that has an attached garage, a working CO alarm should also be installed.
Be sure to have spare batteries on hand for all types of alarms.
Many homes still have smoke and CO alarms which are dependent on your home's electrical system and could be inoperable during a power outage. Check to make sure your electrically powered alarms also have a built in back-up battery. If they do not, you should replace them with newer wired models that include battery back-up protection.
Test your smoke and CO alarms monthly.

Power Outage Safety:

If you are using a cooking appliance such as a stove or oven when the power goes out turn the appliance off immediately. You never want to risk forgetting that it was on and having a kitchen fire should you be asleep or even in another room when the power is restored.
Use battery operated lights rather than candles or oil lamps.
Never use cooking or heating equipment in an enclosed space unless the appliance is certified for indoor use.
Have at least one basic phone that does not require electricity (cordless phones require electricity).
Use your cell phone responsibly during power outages. Cellular telephone circuits become extremely busy during emergencies.
Be sure you know how to open your garage door manually.

Candles:

If you must use candles, use them with extreme caution - never leave a burning candle unattended.
Candles should be secured in a sturdy candle holder that won't tip or burn - some glass bowl types have been known to crack or break from the heat as the candle burns down.
Don't place candles near combustibles or on unstable surfaces such as a couch, chair or window sill.
Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

Portable Generators:

Portable generators should be installed by a Certified Construction Electrician following the manufacturers installation instructions and all applicable code requirements.
Home owners who use a portable generator should read the advisory on the safe use of portable generators for homes issued by Labour and Workforce Development NS. It covers important general safety rules that should be followed.
Always follow the manufacturers maintenance and operating instructions.
Never use a portable generator indoors.
When choosing your exterior location, be sure that exhaust fumes will not enter the house through exterior vents or nearby windows or doors.
Make sure all circuits are turned off before starting the portable generator. Once started, only turn the circuits on that you will use.

Electrical Safety:

If your home has sustained flood or water damage, and you can safely get to the main breaker or fuse box, turn off the power.
Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds.
Exposed outlets and wiring could present a fire and life safety hazard.
Have a licensed electrician check your electrical system for damage before you turn the power back on.